Admissions Blog - John Cabot University

How to Choose the Right BA Major: Your Guide from John Cabot University in Rome

Written by John Cabot University | July 18, 2025 10:51:53 AM Z

Choosing the right Bachelor of Arts (BA) major can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you're passionate about business, art, international affairs, or humanities, your college major plays a key role in shaping your academic and professional future. At John Cabot University in Rome, we offer 15  BA majors and 23 minors — designed to help students thrive in a global, interdisciplinary environment.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to choose the right BA major that aligns with your passions, career goals, and lifestyle, all within the unique liberal-arts setting of JCU.

1. Understand Your Passions and Strengths

Start by asking yourself: What subjects make me lose track of time? What are my academic strengths? Whether you’re drawn to storytelling (majors like Communications or English Literature) or historical analysis (History, Art History), identifying your natural interests is the first step.

At JCU, every student meets with an academic advisor to explore how their passions align with available majors and minors.

 

2. Research Career Paths & Outcomes

Majoring in Business Administration can lead to roles in international consulting, entrepreneurship, or startups,. A degree in Economics and Finance opens pathways in data analysis, public policy, banking and investment. Humanities majors, such as History or Art History, provide a strong foundation for graduate study, museum and archival work, education, law, or cultural diplomacy. Meanwhile, a BA in Art and Design prepares students for careers in graphic design, creative direction, curatorial work, and multimedia art. 

At JCU, our Center for Career Services and signature programs like Learn-Do-Share, help students gain hands-on experience through real consulting projects, internships, and professional development workshops, including resume building and interview coaching. These opportunities empower students to connect their academic major to real-world career goals from day one.

 

3. Explore Interdisciplinary Flexibility

In today's interconnected world, solving complex problems often demands cross-field thinking: combining finance with data analytics, humanities with technology, or communications with political strategy.

At JCU, we encourage you to shape your academic path with intention. With 15 majors and 23 minors, to choose from, you can mix and match fields that align with your interests and career goals. Whether you are a Political Science student exploring Digital Media Arts, or a Art History major adding a Psychology minor, JCU gives you the freedom to design a truly interdisciplinary education.

This flexible approach, rooted in a strong liberal arts foundation, ensures you're not only prepared for your first job, but for an evolving global workforce that values adaptability, critical thinking, and diverse perspectives. 

4. Benefit from Place-Based Learning

Choosing a major also means choosing your learning environment. The city of Rome is JCU’s living classroom. Art History students can intern in museums; Classical Studies majors analyze ruins up close; while International Affairs students engage with diplomats and NGOs in the Eternal City. 

At JCU, learning extends beyond campus, where our professors and faculty connect your major to the people, history, and institutions of one of the world’s most iconic cities.

5. Prioritize Advising and Support

Choosing the right BA major is easier when you have the right support behind you. At JCU, students benefit from academic advising and personalized mentorship that supports their entire educational journey - from orientation to graduation.

Whether you are a degree-seeking student or visiting through a study abroad program, JCU's Academic Advising team offers one-on-one and small group advising, along with skill-building workshops, the university's Tutoring Centers (Math, English, and Foreign Languages), the Counseling Services, and the Frohring Library.

At John Cabot University, choosing your BA major is part of a broader journey of self-discovery.

With academic flexibility, real-world learning, and the backdrop of studying in Rome, you're empowered to explore, experience, and excel with confidence. 

To get started, discover JCU's full list of BA majors and minors

If you'd like to learn more, join one of our upcoming online info sessions or contact us at admissions@johncabot.edu.